Law’s delays to be prevented

For the first time in history 66 new courts of law to prevent the Law’s delays are to be established and gazette notifications for these have been published. The new High Court in Kilinochchi is to be opened shortly after more than two decades, Justice Minister Athauda Seneviratne said.

Five new High Courts buildings are under construction increasing the number of High Courts to 33.

At a press conference at the Justice Ministry yesterday, the Minister said the Kilinochchi High Court will start functioning from August 14. President Mahinda Rajapaksa is expected to open the High Court, the Minister said.

The Minister said several new steps were taken to minimize the Law’s delays by establishing new courts with retired judges recalled to serve these.

It was found that a very long time was spent in courts in postponing cases. Appointing Attorneys at Law to assist judges to attend to such matters was also under consideration.

The Minister said there was a very large number of people convicted for minor offences serving jail sentences and action would be taken to integrate these people to society.

The Ministry plans to implement a number of people-friendly proposals in the future.

One was to change the terms of the Juvenile offenders laws to make it easier for children who come as witnesses or suspects in certain cases. The Juvenile Court building under construction at Battaramulla will be completed soon.